Rocky Horror Show
Richard O’Brien
Directed by Christopher Luscombe
Fairfield Halls, Croydon
Star rating: 3.5
It’s a strange feeling to be at a Cult Musical when you are not, definitely not, part of the cult. Although this show began to gestate in 1973 (at the Royal Court) I had never seen it before. Today it seems to attract hordes of adoring fans in extravagant 1970s/80s costumes who know the entire show, words and music, by heart. And they’re not quiet about it.
An elaborate spoof on 1970s horror and sci-fi movies, the piece is framed by a pink-clad usherette (Laura Bird – cheerfully flirtatious) to create a cinematic ambience. Thereafter we’re in a “film” in which newly engaged Janet (Haley Flahertry) and Brad (James Bisp) end up at a gothic castle full of weirdos because their car has broken down. Lots of very slick choreography (Nathan M Wright) and loud music (MD Adam Smith) drives the fast-paced piece through its Frankenstein-like plot, complete with sexual discovery, to a theatrically spectacular finale with flashing lights and masses of smoke.
A fine performance from Stephen Webb as Frank N Furter sits at the heart of the production. As the dastardly, manipulative inventor he purrs, cajoles, seduces, sings well and commands the stage. And he’s supported by exceptionally energetic ensemble work especially Ryan Carter-Wilson as Riff Raff and Daisy Steere as Columbia. And Morgan Jackson is athletically muscled and convincing as Rocky, the created “man”.
It seems to be a Rocky Horror tradition that well versed fans chip in throughout the show. It’s more like pantomime than anything else I’m familiar with although the humour is outrageously “adult”. At the performance I saw two men in drag, who moved to the front row in the second half, had a well practised, clearly audible comment for almost everything said on stage. And Nathan Caton, as narrator is very good at running with the spontaneous comedy. It’s brash, often ribald and sometimes funny as the show pounds on. Caton makes eye contact and times his gestures and ripostes with consummate ease.
Behind the noise and Cultish ambience of this production there’s a five piece band doing a fine job with a demanding score. Bravo to them all.
Seeing this show was a bit like going sailing or sampling crème de menthe. I’m glad I did it – once – but shall not be repeating the experience. Each to her own.
